Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This pre-registration MSc integrates theoretical study with practice-based learning to prepare you for professional registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Teaching covers core nursing knowledge, clinical skills and professional values alongside subjects that support safe assessment and care of adults across the lifespan.

• Core clinical practice and skills – clinical assessment, physical examination, basic and advanced nursing procedures, and medicines management developed through simulated practice and supervised placements.
• Person-centred care and professional practice – ethics, professional standards, communication, safeguarding, consent and legal frameworks that underpin safe nursing practice.
• Anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology – applied biological sciences relevant to adult nursing, including responses to acute and chronic illness.
• Clinical decision making and care planning – clinical reasoning, prioritisation, risk assessment and multidisciplinary working in acute, primary and community settings.
• Long-term and complex conditions – management of frailty, multi-morbidity, palliative care and long-term condition self-management support.
• Research and evidence-based practice – research methods, critical appraisal and implementing evidence into practice; usually includes a research project or practice-focused dissertation.
• Leadership, quality improvement and service development – preparing you to contribute to clinical governance, improvement projects and team leadership.

Learning methods typically include lectures, seminars, laboratory and simulation sessions in the Clinical Skills Centre, supervised clinical placements across a range of adult services, workshops, and independent study. Assessment methods combine practical skills assessments, written assignments, case-based examinations and project work. The programme meets the practice hours and competencies required for professional registration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK honours degree (or equivalent) in any discipline; many successful applicants have at least a second-class degree. Relevant work or voluntary experience in health or care settings is highly desirable and can strengthen an application.

• Evidence of literacy and numeracy at GCSE level (or recognised equivalents) is commonly required.
• Occupational health clearance, an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and proof of immunisations are required before clinical placements.
• International applicants must meet English language requirements as specified by the university (for example through IELTS or equivalent) to ensure safe practice and communication.
• Selection typically includes screening of academic and personal statements and may include interview or clinical scenario assessment to evaluate suitability for professional practice.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to apply for registration as an adult nurse and typically begin careers as staff nurses or newly qualified registered nurses across acute hospitals, community services, mental health liaison teams, primary care and specialist services. With experience, common progression routes include senior staff nurse, charge nurse or ward manager, specialist nursing roles (for example in palliative care, critical care, oncology or community nursing), clinical educator, research nurse or advanced clinical practice through further postgraduate study.

The programme is also a foundation for roles in healthcare leadership, service improvement, commissioning and health policy, or for continued academic study at doctoral level for those interested in research and education roles.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University combines applied professional training with research-informed teaching and strong links to local NHS and social care partners, ensuring placement opportunities across diverse adult care settings. The university's Clinical Skills Centre provides simulation-based learning that lets you practise clinical and communication skills in realistic scenarios before and during placements.

Small-group teaching, active support for students' development and a focus on reflective, person-centred practice help prepare graduates for the realities of contemporary nursing. The university also offers academic and careers support to help you transition into practice and pursue specialist pathways or further postgraduate study.